Opposition Watch: v Richmond

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Richmond remains undefeated after a tense 11 point Victory against West Coast at the MCG last Saturday.

The Tigers were trailing by seven points at half-time yet made a strong return in the third term with four goals to West Coasts’ two, running out 11.10 (76) to 8.17(65) victors.

The win has placed the Tigers’ at the top of the ladder alongside Geelong and Adelaide, with their 3 game lead into 2017 being the Clubs best start to a season since 2013.

Richmond’s midfielder Dustin Martin had an impressive game, defying a fractured cheekbone with an outstanding 15 clearances and a game-high 40 possessions and two goals. His outstanding performance on the day saw him bank another three Brownlow Medal votes.

Dan Butler (two goals) and Jason Castagna (one goal) were pivotal in Richmonds’ attack. Meanwhile small defender Reece Conca produced one of his finest performances for several seasons, finishing with 25 disposals, six marks, four tackles and a total of 389 metres gained.

Richmond co vice-captain Jack Riewoldt has expressed his pride with how the Tigers’ fleet of small forwards have performed in the early rounds of the 2017 season.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to play with them the way they embrace the bigger bodies,” Reiwoldt told ‘ABC Grandstand’ post-match.

“… they put their bodies on the line, and we were able to finish off the work with a few goals late.”

The Tigers travel to the Gabba to take on the Brisbane Lions this Sunday. With a nine-game winning streak against the Lions, the Tigers will be hoping to strengthen their premiership point lead.

Injury Watch

Richmonds’ defender Nick Vlastuin received an accidental elbow to the head during the Round 3 match, resulting in a broken nose that sent the player off late in the third term. Nonetheless, Richmond coach Damien Hardwick expects the tough utility to return this Sunday against the Lions.

Richmond has placed defender Nathan Broad on the Club’s long-term injury list following an AC joint injury in his right shoulder at training last Thursday morning. Meanwhile, half-forward Shane Edwards is expected to remain sidelined this Sunday following a hip injury incurred during Round 2.

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the AFL or its clubs